Adjustable moment frame

ABSTRACT

An adjustable moment frame, comprising: base columns, each comprising a plurality of column attachment points; beams, each comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and connectors, each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points. The beam attachment points are configured to align with the column attachment points, such that the frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/column configurations. The beam attachment points are configured to align with the connector attachment points, such that the frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/connector configurations.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/460,204, filed Feb. 17, 2017, entitled “ADJUSTABLE MOMENT FRAME”, by inventor Robert J. L. Collins, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in their entirety.

FIELD OF USE

The present disclosure generally relates to the field of support frames. More specifically, the present disclosure generally relates to a device for supporting an existing structure, usually a soft story structure that is in a weakened condition and might collapse.

BACKGROUND

Moment frames or moment-resisting frames are generally rectilinear assemblage of beams and columns, with the beams rigidly connected to the columns. The purpose of a moment frame is to resist lateral forces, typically caused by earth-quakes or high storm winds. The resistance to lateral forces is provided by rigid frame action, i.e. the development of bending moment and shear force in the frame joints, beams, and columns. Preferably, a moment frame is unable to be moved laterally without the beams or columns bending.

Moment-resisting frames in construction have been used since the late 1800's and led to the rise of tall buildings throughout the world. Importantly, these frames are cut to specification and are riveted or welded in a manner that is not adjustable.

After an earthquake, soft story buildings (building without steel frame constructions) often sustain damage, but are not destroyed. These damaged buildings may later collapse, which can cause further damage and injury. Before the device of the present disclosure, these soft story buildings, either before or after an earthquake, can be seismically retrofitted with supports that may prevent the collapse of the building. Examples of the support may be a moment column or a moment frame (columns and beams). Most moment frames include two vertical members (columns) that are connected by a horizontal member (beam), and the three members form a rigid and strong frame for whatever portion of the building they support. Before the device of the present disclosure, moment frames were not adjustable. If the frame arrives at the site and is too large, it has to be cut down or a smaller frame must be ordered. If the frame arrives at the site and it is too small, a larger frame must be ordered.

Accordingly, what is needed a new moment frame that is adjustable.

SUMMARY

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present specification discloses an adjustable moment frame.

One embodiment may be an adjustable moment frame, comprising: one or more base columns; one or more substantially vertical beams; one or more connectors; and at least one substantially horizontal beam. The connectors, columns, and beams may be fastened together with one or more fasteners on site and the parts may fit together in various configurations to allow the frame created to be adjustable in length and height.

Although the preferred use for the adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure is for soft story buildings, other structures might benefit from being retrofitted or supported by the adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure. Additionally, although the frame of the present disclosure may be most useful in retrofitting structures that have sustained damage and are in danger of collapse. The frame of the present disclosure may be used in new construction, retrofitting undamaged buildings, or for adding an industrial design flair to existing spaces.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure eliminates the need for exact size frame ordering and manufacturing due to the ability to be adjusted in the field at the building site. This significantly reduces the cost of manufacture as one adjustable moment frame set can be used at a variety of projects and in a variety of different-sized structures.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be installed in buildings with imperfections due to out-of-level beams, ceilings, slabs, floors and vertically out-of-plumb walls, columns and posts. The adjustability allows for the adjustable moment frame to compensate for these imperfections and provide superior support.

The adjustable moment frame may be assembled using nuts, bolts, and washers at the building site. All that is needed is to ship the disassembled parts of the frame. Because the parts are separable, they are much easier to transport. The adjustable moment frame may be transported via a light duty commercial vehicle, such as a pickup truck. It may be off loaded by hand without the necessity of using a fork lift. Moment frames other than the frames of the present disclosure, are typically shipped in one very large piece and require large trucks and forklifts to transport and load/unload.

Although the adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be welded once put together, it does not have to be welded and may eliminate the need for field welding, on site regulatory inspections, building evacuations (due to welding fumes and hazards), and a fire prevention observer during the welding.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may travel through and around confined areas, such as, building openings, hallways, windows, and doors. This is because it may be transported in disassembled pieces.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may substantially eliminate the need for ordering and manufacturing exact sizes of moment frames, because the frame of the present disclosure is adjustable and may be fitted to buildings, rooms, and structures of various heights and lengths.

These, as well as other components, steps, features, objects, benefits, and advantages, will now become clear from a review of the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, and of the claim.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings are of illustrative embodiments. They do not illustrate all embodiments. Other embodiments may be used in addition or instead. Details which may be apparent or unnecessary may be omitted to save space or for more effective illustration. Some embodiments may be practiced with additional components or steps and/or without all of the components or steps which are illustrated. When the same numeral appears in different drawings, it refers to the same or like components or steps.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of an adjustable moment frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Before the present methods and systems are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific methods, specific components, or to particular implementations. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal embodiment. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that may be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all embodiments of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that may be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps may be performed with any specific embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed methods.

The present methods and systems may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the examples included therein and to the Figures and their previous and following description.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments. For purposes of the specification, unless otherwise specified, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, in one embodiment, an object that is “substantially” located within a housing would mean that the object is either completely within a housing or nearly completely within a housing. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking, the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained. The use of “substantially” is also equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result.

As used herein, the terms “approximately” and “about” generally refer to a deviance of within 5% of the indicated number or range of numbers. In one embodiment, the term “approximately” and “about”, may refer to a deviance of between 0.001-10% from the indicated number or range of numbers.

Various embodiments are now described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It may be evident, however, that the various embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate describing these embodiments.

Various embodiments presented in terms of systems may comprise a number of components, modules, and the like. It is to be understood and appreciated that the various systems may include additional components, modules, etc. and/or may not include all of the components, modules, etc. discussed in connection with the figures. A combination of these approaches may also be used.

The pieces, portions, or parts of the adjustable moment frame may be made from high strength steel and are interconnected via connectors, such as high strength bolts or rivets. The joints and side pieces may removeably interconnect in many ways, such as channel guided or hollow structural section (HSS) tube. The bolts may be combined with nuts and washers to secure the parts together.

Although the Figures show embodiments designed for single or double story structure, the adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be used for multistory structures and multiple sections. Although only T and corner connectors are shown, it should be understood that other connection configurations may be used, including diagonal and pyramidal. The term “connector”, as used herein, refers to a structure that connects a vertical column with a horizontal, substantially horizontal, or diagonal beam, or that connects two of the following: horizontal beam, substantially horizontal beam, and a diagonal beam. A connector may also connect two or more beams to a column. The term “beam”, as used herein, refers to a vertical, substantially vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or substantially horizontal length of rigid material. The term “column” or “base column”, as used herein, refers to a vertical or substantially vertical length of rigid material that connects to a vertical or substantially vertical beam and a surface. The adjustable moment frame may use multiple connectors to the beams, posts, columns in any direction, including six (6) directions or more.

Although the word adjustable is used to describe how the pieces of the adjustable moment frame fit together, the frame may also be described as extendable, expandable, telescopes, telescopic, telescoping, expandable, lengthening, on-site adjustable, etc.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be an adjustable, extendable, expandable, telescopic, or telescoping moment frame. The adjustable moment frame may comprise parts called pieces, portions, connectors, connections, sections, bases, plates, posts, columns, beams, fasteners, bolts, attachment points, washers, nuts, wood, platings, or coatings.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be a structural steel frame that is fabricated in pieces and assembled on the site of usage, and then attached to an existing building to strengthen the building. The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may help protect a building from collapse and or heavy damages caused from a seismic event. The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure parts may have multiple connection points allowing the frame to adapt to various heights and widths of a structure allowing the frame to be field fitted to a variety of building/room/frame sizes.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may be adjusted in the field to various building dimensions making it easily adaptable to an existing building's frame, and to strengthen the structure, thereby preventing heavy damage and or collapse from a past, current, or future seismic event. The variety of connection points that may be manufactured into the adjustable moment frame's parts allow the adjustable moment frame to adjust to various widths and heights.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. As shown in FIG. 1, the adjustable moment frame 100 may comprise one or more substantially horizontal beams 110, 120, one or more substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, one or more connectors 140, 141, 142, and one or more base columns 150, 151, 152. As shown, each of the beams, connectors, and columns may have two or more attachment points 190 on the end portions.

These attachment points 190, as shown in FIG. 1 may be holes, such that when the end portion of a beam overlaps with the end portion of a column or a connector, the holes may overlap, which allows a bolt 192 or rivet to be inserted through, which attaches the two parts together. The attachment points 190 may be numerous, sixteen (16) are shown, but there may be more, or less, than 16. Each hole may be about three (3″) inches apart, so that the strength of the material is not compromised by the holes and the spaced-out holes allow the beam and column or connector to be adjustably connected. The length 196, 197 or height 195 of the frame is longer or higher if the more distal holes are overlapped and bolted. The length 196, 197 or height 195 of the frame is shorter if the more proximal holes are overlapped and bolted.

FIG. 1 shows that the most proximal of the holes are overlapped and bolted. The two parts may then be moved apart, one set of holes at a time, such that the frame gets longer or taller. If the sets of holes are approximately 3 inches apart, then the frame can be expanded or contracted, 3 inches at a time. If each beam, connector and column has 16 holes, and 8 fasteners are used, then there are 8 different configurations per coupling, each 3 inches further apart or closer together. Because each beam is connected to two different connectors or columns, this may allow for 16 different configurations for each beam. This may allow the adjustable moment frame to vary in length or height up to 4 feet. Thus, if the smallest height is 8 feet, the tallest height is 12 feet, and the height may be adjusted to six different intervening heights between 8 feet and 12 feet. This makes the adjustable moment frame extremely flexible in fitting the structure that it will support, without requiring the frame be created to an exact specification or cut at the site. This flexibility and standardization of parts, reduces costs and raises efficiencies for both manufacturing and implementation.

In some embodiments, after the beams are bolted to the connectors and columns, the parts may be welded, such that frame is permanently set and extra strength is provided. If no welding is used, then the frame may be unbolted and removed to be used on a different project or it may be adjusted to fit the structure better.

FIG. 1 shows that there may be corner connectors 140, 142 and T-connector 141. Although other types of connectors may be used, these two are the most common shapes and allow the connectors to connect the substantially vertical beams to the substantially horizontal beams.

The base columns 150, 151, 152, which are shown as bolted to the substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, may be bolted to the surface 160, 161, 162. The surface may be concrete foundation block as shown, or some other reinforced base, floor, or surface. The base columns 150, 151, 152, may be bolted to the surface with fasteners, such as bolts and nuts, four fasteners as shown. The base columns 150, 151, 152, may sit on a layer of non-shrink grout. The bolts may include or be combined with nuts and washers to secure the parts together.

The variability of the length and width of the frame 100 is determined by how many attachment points the substantially horizontal beams 110, 120, substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, connectors 140, 141, 142, and base columns 150, 151, 152, have. The more attachment points there are that are spaced longitudinally at the ends of the parts, the more variability there is in the height 195 and length 196, 197. The frame 100 shown is an exemplar that may adjust between 8-10 feet in height 195, 14-16 feet in length 196, and 8-10 feet in length 197.

Although FIG. 1 shows fasteners 192 and holes 190, the attachment points may be other mechanisms, such as, but not limited to, pins, dowels, rivets, ultrasonic welding, nails, screws, and the like. The substantially horizontal beams 110, 120, substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, connectors 140, 141, 142, and base columns 150, 151, 152, bolts and nuts, or some other type of fastener 192 may be made from steel, carbon steels, maraging steel, stainless steel, tool steel, inconel, tungsten, titanium, and chromium, or other strong metals that provide the strength and rigidity needed to be a moment frame that prevents structures from collapsing. The fasteners 192 are preferably strong and at least an ½″ in diameter and preferably ever two parts are connected by at least eight (8) fasteners 192, as shown. More or less fasteners 192 may be used, depending on the overlap of the holes and how much frame strength is needed to reinforce or support the structure. If bolts are the fasteners, the bolts may include or be combined with nuts and washers.

In one embodiment, the top part of the frame 100 is assembled by determining how long the frame 100 needs to be, connecting the one or more substantially horizontal beams 110, 120, to one or more of the connectors 140, 141, 142, wherein the attachment points of the beams and connectors are selected based on the desired length of the frame 100. The needed height of the frame is then determined and the connectors that are used may be then connected to one or more of the substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132, by the fasteners, at the attachment points, such that the desired height is achievable. The base columns 150, 151, 152 may then be connected to the substantially vertical beams 130, 131, 132 and the surface 160, 161, 162. Because the height and length of the frame 100 is adjustable, the frames made from the parts of the adjustable moment frames may be adapted to fit a very wide variety structure sizes. Moreover, the frame may be made from as few as one substantially horizontal beam, two corner connectors, two substantially vertical connectors, and two base columns. The T-connector provides the ability to have the length be even more flexible and can essentially allow for numerous connections and an endless length. Because the frame may be assembled at the structure or site, the various parts of the adjustable moment frame may be shipped in small batches, which means a heavy truck, crane, and or forklift are not necessary for transporting and moving the frame.

When the beams connect with the connectors, multiple beam/connector configurations may be formed. When the beams connect with the base columns, multiple beam/column configurations may be formed. The configurations are based on the changeable alignment of the holes of the beams, columns, and connectors.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 2 shows that the beam 200 may be a wide flange beam, sometimes referred to an I-beam. The beam 200 may have two ends or end portions 206, 207, which may have a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes 205, 208. The holes may be parallel 205 or offset 208. The holes may be spaced apart at any distance, such as approximately 3″ apart. As shown in FIG. 2, there may be sixteen (16) holes, but there may be more or less. The more holes that are overlapped and bolted together the stronger the connection is. As shown in FIG. 1, each part may be connected by eight bolts/nuts. If the distal holes (those closest to the ends of the beam 200) of holes 205, 208 are used, then the frame is longer or higher. If the proximal holes (those closest to the middle of the beam 200) of holes 205, 208 are used, then the frame is smaller or shorter.

FIG. 2 also shows that the beam 200 may have a nailer 210 that may be used to better engage with a side or top of the structure being supported. The nailer 210 may be wood, plastic, or similar type of material that is connected to beam 200.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. As shown in FIG. 3A the T-connector 300 may interconnect two or three beams at ends 310, 315, 320. The ends 310, 315, 320 may engage a flat side of the beams, such as beam 200, and the attachment points may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected together.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. As shown in FIG. 3B the corner connector 350 may interconnect two substantially perpendicular beams at ends 360, 370. The ends 360, 370 may engage the flat side of the beams, such as beam 200, and the attachment points may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected together.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 4 shows that base column 400 may be configured to attach to a substantial horizontal surface and may be substantially perpendicular to that surface, such that the base column 400 is substantially vertical in use. Base column 400 may comprise side supports 405, surface attachment portion 420, and attachment portions 410.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 5A shows that the beam may be a different shape, specifically a C-channel shape. The C-channel beam 502 is configured to matingly engage—C-channel to C-channel—with the connectors 505, 508 shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C.

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 5B shows that the top portion of corner channel 504 may have a C-channel and the bottom portion 502 may have a wide flange. This wide flange may matingly engage with the wide flange 512 of base column 510.

FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 5C shows that T-connector 508 may comprise a C-channel 506 on the top, wide flange 509, and welding line 507.

FIG. 5D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 5D shows that the base column 510 may have a flat base 513 to connect vertically from a substantially horizontal surface and may have a wide flange 512.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 6 shows an adjustable moment frame 600, which may comprise one or more substantially horizontal beams 610, 620, one or more substantially vertical beams 630, 631, 632, one or more connectors 640, 641, 642, and one or more base columns 650, 651, 652. The base columns 650, 651, 652, which are shown as bolted to the substantially vertical beams 630, 631, 632, may be bolted to the surface 660, 661, 662. The surface may be concrete foundation block as shown, or some other reinforced base, floor, or surface. The base columns 650, 651, 652, may be bolted to the surface with bolts and nuts, four bolt and nut combinations are shown. The base columns 650, 651, 652, may be on a layer of non-shrink grout and may be substantially vertical and perpendicular to the surface. The base columns may be bolted to the surface, as exampled by bolt 678.

FIG. 6 shows that the parts may have attachment points, which are shown by example holes 690. The substantially horizontal beams 610, 620, one or more substantially vertical beams 630, 631, 632, one or more connectors 640, 641, 642, and one or more base columns 650, 651, 652, as shown, may be hollow structural section (HSS) tubes of various diameters that are configured to telescope within each other, such that the holes align in different configurations. This allows the frame's height and length to be adjusted to be shorter, taller, longer or smaller.

FIG. 6 shows that when the end portion of a beam overlaps with the end portion of a column or a connector, the holes may telescopically overlap, which may allow a bolt 692 or rivet to be inserted through, which attaches the two parts together. The attachment points 690 may be numerous, sixteen (16) (in eight (8) sets) are shown, but there may be more or less than 16. Each hole may be about three (3″) inches apart, so that the strength of the material is not compromised by the holes and the spaced-out holes allow the beam and column or connector to be adjustably connected. FIG. 6 shows that the beams have a smaller diameter than the connectors and columns, and they fit within the hollow space of the connectors and columns. In other embodiments the beams may have a greater diameter and the columns and connectors may slide within the beams.

FIG. 6 shows that the frame 600 may have a lateral beam hanger 698. This allows the frame to extend support in a depth dimension. The adjustable moment frames of the present disclosure may be integral in all three dimensions, height, length, and depth. Alternatively, two frames may be set up in parallel and lateral beam hangers may be used to provide cross support to the space between the parallel frames.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 7A shows that the beam 700 may be a hollow structural section. The beam 700 may have two ends or end portions 710, 720, which may have a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes 711, 721. The holes may be parallel, as shown, or may be offset, as shown in FIG. 2. The holes may be spaced apart at any distance, such as approximately 3″ apart. As shown in FIG. 7, there may be sixteen (16) holes, but there may be more or less holes. The more holes that are overlapped and bolted together the stronger the connection may be. As shown in FIG. 6, each part may be connected by eight fasteners. If the distal holes (those closest to the ends of the beam 700) of holes 711, 721 are used, then the frame is longer or higher. If the proximal holes (those closest to the middle of the beam 700) of holes 710, 720 are used, then the frame is smaller or shorter.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a beam of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 7B shows that the beam 750 may be a hollow structural section. The beam 750 may have two ends or end portions 760, 770, which may have a plurality of attachment points or, as shown, holes 761, 771. The holes may be parallel, as shown, or may be offset, as shown in FIG. 2. The holes may be spaced apart at any distance, such as approximately 3″ apart. As shown in FIG. 7, there may be sixteen (16) holes, but there may be more or less holes. The more holes that are overlapped and bolted together the stronger the connection may be. As shown in FIG. 6, each part may be connected by eight fasteners. If the distal holes (those closest to the ends of the beam 750) of holes 761, 771 are used, then the frame is longer or higher. If the proximal holes (those closest to the middle of the beam 750) of holes 761, 771 are used, then the frame is smaller or shorter. FIG. 7B also shows that the beam 750 may have a nailer 751 that may be used to better engage with a side or top of the structure being supported. The nailer 751 may be wood, plastic, or similar type of material that is connected to beam 750. The beam 750 may be used in a substantially vertical or a substantially horizontal manner, depending on for what it is needed.

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a corner connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. The beams 700, 750 may be configured to matingly and telescopically engage with the connectors 800, 850, 869. As shown in FIG. 8A the corner connector 800 may interconnect two substantially perpendicular beams at ends 805, 810. The ends 805, 810 may telescopically engage over or into the beams, such as beams 700, 750, and the attachment points 806, 811, 711, 721, 761, 771 may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected together. FIG. 8A shows that, because the connectors and beams may be hollow structural sections, which are stronger than an I beam or a c-channel beam, less attachment points 806, 811, which is 8 or 10 holes respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, all 8 or 10 holes may be used to bolt together the beams with the connectors. Thus, in this embodiment, it is the beams, with their 16 attachment points that provide all of the adjustability in length and height. The corner connector 800 may have a weld seam 815 at the miter joint. An HSS bar cannot be bent or cut into a corner, it may be miter cut and welded.

FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a T-connector of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. As shown in FIG. 8B the T-connector 850 may interconnect two to three beams at ends 855, 858, 860. The ends 855, 858, 860 may telescopically engage over or into the beams, such as beams 700, 750, and the attachment points 856, 857, 861, 711, 721, 761, 771 may be aligned and bolted, riveted, or otherwise connected together. FIG. 8B shows that, because the connectors and beams may be hollow structural sections, which are stronger than an I beam or a c-channel beam, less attachment points 856, 857, 861, which are 8 or 10 holes respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, all 8 or 10 holes may be used to bolt together the beams with the connectors. Thus, in this embodiment, it is the beams, with their 16 attachment points that provide all of the adjustability in length and height. The T-connector 850 may have weld seams 852 at the miter joints. An HSS bar cannot be bent or cut into a corner, so the parts of the T-connector may be miter cut and welded.

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a base column of one embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 8C shows that base column 869 have a base plate 880, which may be welded 875 to the vertical portion, and may be configured to attach to a substantial horizontal surface via bolts and nuts 890. The base column 869 may be substantially perpendicular to the horizontal surface, such that the base column 869 is substantially vertical in use. Base column 869 may comprise 10 attachment portions 870, which are configured to align with the attachment portions of the beams, such that the two parts are adjustably connectable through fasteners, such as bolts/nuts and/or rivets.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of an adjustable moment frame. FIG. 6 shows an adjustable moment frame 900, which may comprise one or more substantially horizontal beams 912, 916, 924, 930, one or more substantially vertical beams 920, 928, 934, one or more connectors 910, 914, 918, and one or more connectors 922, 926, 932, which also function as base columns.

FIG. 9 shows that the adjustable moment frame 900, may comprise one or more lateral beam hangers 902, and the base columns/connectors 922, 926, 932 and substantially horizontal beams 924, 930 may be put together and then encased in concrete 950, such that the connectors 922, 926, 932 function as base columns. Because the base columns are not bolted to the concrete 950, but are instead encased in concrete, this is a very strong configuration. As shown in FIG. 9, the beams 912, 916, 924, 930, 920, 928, 934, connectors 910, 914, 918, and one or more base column/connectors 922, 926, 932, each comprise a plurality of attachment points 911, 960, 961, which are configured to allow the connectors to adjustably connect with the beams. FIG. 9 shows that the beams 912, 916, 924, 930, 920, 928, 934 may have sixteen (16) sets holes for the attachment points. FIG. 9 shows that the connectors may have five (5) sets of holes, which overlap five sets of the sixteen sets of holes, such that one or more fasteners, such a bolt or rivet, may pass through the overlapped holes. FIG. 9 shows that parts may be hollow structural section (HSS) tubes of various diameters that are configured to telescope within each other, such that the holes align in different configurations. This allows the frame's height and length to be adjusted to be shorter, taller, longer or smaller. The beams, columns, connectors may also be other configurations, such as C-channel or I-beam. The connectors and beams that are encased in concrete may be bottom connectors and beams.

The adjustable moment frame of the present disclosure may comprise: a base connector, one or more columns, one or more intersection connectors, and substantially horizontal beam section. The parts may be fastened together using nuts, bolts, and washers. These parts can be fastened at various connection points (holes, notches, etc.) to be fitted to a specific height and width of the building/structure to be supported.

The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: one or more base columns, each comprising a plurality of base column attachment points; one or more beams, each comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and one or more connectors, each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points; wherein said plurality of beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of column attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/column configurations; wherein said plurality of beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/connector configurations. wherein said one or more beams are configured to be coupled to said one or more connectors; and wherein said one or more beams are configured to be coupled to said one or more base columns.
 2. The adjustable moment frame of claim 1, wherein said one or more beams comprise one substantially horizontal beam and two substantially vertical beams, a first substantially vertical beam and a second substantially vertical beam; wherein said one or more connectors are two corner connectors, a first connector and a second connector; wherein said one or more base columns are two base columns; wherein said two corner connectors are coupled to opposite ends of said substantially horizontal beam; wherein said first substantially vertical beam is coupled to said first connector; wherein said second substantially vertical beam is coupled to said second connector; wherein said first connector is coupled to said first base column; wherein said second connector is coupled to said second base column; wherein said two base columns are coupled to a surface of a structure, such that said adjustable moment frame provides support to said structure.
 3. The adjustable moment frame of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of fasteners are configured to couple said substantially horizontal beam to said two corner connectors; and wherein said plurality of fasteners are configured to couple said two substantially vertical beams to said two corner connectors.
 4. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said one or more of said plurality of fasteners are removed and said adjustable moment frame is adjusted or disassembled.
 5. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said plurality of fasteners comprise: a plurality of nuts, bolts, and washers.
 6. The adjustable moment frame of claim 5, wherein said plurality of column attachment points, said plurality of beam attachment points; and said plurality of connector attachment points are holes.
 7. The adjustable moment frame of claim 6, wherein said adjustable moment frame is assembled on site at said structure.
 8. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said structure being supported by said adjustable moment frame has been damaged and is in danger of collapse.
 9. The adjustable moment frame of claim 3, wherein said two base columns are substantially vertical.
 10. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: at least two base columns, each comprising a plurality of base column attachment points; at least one substantially horizontal beam comprising two opposite ends, a first end and a second end, wherein said first and second ends each comprise a plurality of horizontal beam attachment points; at least two substantially vertical beams; wherein each of said at least two substantially vertical beams comprises two opposite ends, a first end and a second end, wherein said first and second ends each comprise a plurality of vertical beam attachment points at least two connectors, each comprising at least two ends, a first end and a second send, wherein said first and second ends each comprise a plurality of connector attachment points; a plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of horizontal beam attachment points of said first end of said at least one substantially horizontal beam are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of said first end of a first of said at least two connectors in at least two different configurations, such that a length of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said first end of said at least one substantially horizontal beam and of said first end of said first of said at least two connectors, such that said at least one substantially horizontal beam and said first of said at least two connectors are coupled together; wherein said plurality of horizontal beam attachment points of said second end of said at least one substantially horizontal beam are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of said first end of a second of said at least two connectors in at least two different configurations, such that said length of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said second end of said at least one substantially horizontal beam and of said first end of said second of said at least two connectors, such that said at least one substantially horizontal beam and said second of said at least two connectors are coupled together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points of said first end of a first of said at least two substantially vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of said second end of said first of said at least two connectors in at least two different configurations, such that a height of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said first end of said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams and of said second end of said first of said at least two connectors, such that said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams and said first of said at least two connectors are coupled together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points of said first end of a second of said at least two substantially vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of said second end of said second of said at least two connectors in at least two different configurations, such that said height of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said first end of said second of said at least two substantially vertical beams and of said second end of said second of said at least two connectors, such that said second of said at least two substantially vertical beams and said second of said at least two connectors are coupled together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points of said second end of said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of a first of said at least two base columns in at least two different configurations, such that said height of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said second end of said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams and of said first of said at least two base columns, such that said first of said at least two substantially vertical beams and said first of said at least two base columns are coupled together; wherein said plurality of vertical beam attachment points of said second end of said second of said at least two substantially vertical beams are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points of a second of said at least two base columns in at least two different configurations, such that said height of said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between said at least two different configurations; wherein at least one fastener of said plurality of fasteners engages with said aligned attachment points of said second end of said second of said at least two substantially vertical beams and of said second of said at least two base columns, such that said second of said at least two substantially vertical beams and said second of said at least two base columns are coupled together.
 11. The adjustable moment frame of claim 10, wherein when said at least one substantially horizonal beam, said at least two connectors, said at least two substantially vertical beams, and said at least two base columns are connected, said adjustable moment frame is created that supports a structure.
 12. The adjustable moment frame of claim 11, wherein said at least two base columns are coupled to a surface of said structure, such that said adjustable moment frame provides support to said structure.
 13. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said one or more of said plurality of fasteners are removed and said adjustable moment frame is adjusted or disassembled.
 14. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said plurality of fasteners comprise: a plurality of nuts, bolts, and washers.
 15. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said plurality of column attachment points, said plurality of beam attachment points; and said plurality of connector attachment points are holes.
 16. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said adjustable moment frame is assembled on site at said structure.
 17. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said structure being supported by said adjustable moment frame has been damaged and is in danger of collapse.
 18. The adjustable moment frame of claim 12, wherein said two base columns are substantially vertical.
 19. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: two base columns, each comprising a plurality of base column attachment points; a substantially horizontal beam, comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and two substantially vertical beams, each comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; two connectors, each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points; and a plurality of fasteners; wherein said plurality of fasteners are configured to couple said two base columns, said substantially horizontal beam, said two substantially vertical beams, and said two connectors in at least two different configurations to form said adjustable moment frame. wherein said plurality of beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of column attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/column configurations; and wherein said plurality of beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/connector configurations; wherein said two base columns are coupled to a surface of a structure, such that said adjustable moment frame provides support to said structure.
 20. An adjustable moment frame, comprising: four or more beams, each comprising a plurality of beam attachment points; and four or more connectors, each comprising a plurality of connector attachment points; wherein said plurality of beam attachment points are configured to align with said plurality of connector attachment points, such that said adjustable moment frame is adjustable between at least two different beam/connector configurations. wherein said four or more beams are configured to be coupled to said four or more connectors; wherein said four or more beams comprise at least one top substantially horizontal beam, at least one bottom substantially horizontal beam, and at least two substantially vertical beams; wherein said four or more connectors are at least two top connectors and at least two bottom connectors; wherein said at least two bottom connectors function as base columns; wherein said two top connectors are coupled to opposite ends of said top substantially horizontal beam; wherein said at least two substantially vertical beams are coupled to said at least two top connectors; wherein said at least two substantially vertical beams are also coupled to said at least two bottom connectors; wherein said two bottom connectors are coupled to opposite ends of said bottom substantially horizontal beam; wherein said two bottom connectors and said bottom substantially horizontal beams are encased in concrete, such that said adjustable moment frame provides support to said structure. 